American guys in Kathmandu, desolate (5)

I believe the answer is:

dudes

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'american guys' is the definition.
'dudes' can be an answer for 'guys' (I've seen this in another clue). I am not certain of the 'american' bit.

'in kathmandu desolate' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates the answer is hidden within the clue.
'DUDES' can be found hidden inside 'kathmandu desolate'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for dudes that I've seen before include "American dandies or city dwellers" , "American blokes" , "Civilians, to a cowboy" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

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